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“Fast-forward 19 years and Lisa is one of the most dedicated, experienced and qualified paramedics working as part of the HEMS [helicopter] crew.

“Working as part of the Thames Valley Air Ambulance crew means that Lisa often sees people at their worst – in a critical or life-threatening situation.

"Her years of experience and training mean that she’s well equipped to work in such pressured circumstances but it’s her innate ability to bring care, compassion and calm to a situation that makes her stand out.

“Nearly two decades of working as a paramedic means that Lisa has seen some horrific injuries and witnessed great sadness.

"Equally, the positive impact she’s made to the lives of hundreds of families across Reading, Berkshire, and across the Thames Valley is deserving of recognition.”

Recently-aired documentary Emergency Helicopter Medics on More4 also showcased Miss Brown’s standout qualities as she’s filmed caring for a nine-year-old boy who had been hit by a car.

“For Lisa, examples like these two ‘are all in a day’s work’. Making a difference to the lives of people is what she ‘signed up to do’; it’s her ‘job’.

"But, working alongside her, it’s clear being a critical care paramedic isn’t just a day job, it’s a way of being for her,” said Dr Brown.

Miss Brown said: “I am sincerely humbled to have been nominated for the Pride of Reading award, as to be recognised for doing something that I honestly love doing and which is more than just a job to me, is truly amazing.

“Dr Brown is someone for whom I have a very deep respect and the fact that he felt me worthy of being nominated for this award is truly an honour.”

When asked what makes her most proud to be a helicopter paramedic, she said: “To be able to deliver enhanced critical care to the patients we serve.”

The Health Worker of the Year Award is sponsored by Crowne Plaza Reading.